What is Aquaplaning in Cars? This is the Danger & How to Overcome It
Do you often watch Formula 1, or do you even watch the news when the rainy season comes? If so, the term aquaplaning might be something you're already familiar with. But, do you know what aquaplaning is? Aquaplaning, also often referred to as hydroplaning, is a condition when a car's tires lose their grip.
When in a sporting event, if a driver complains about aquaplaning, the race will be immediately paused, and the driver will reduce their speed. Once the water puddles disappear, the race will continue.
However, don't be mistaken because aquaplaning does not only occur on the track, but it can also happen on the roads you frequently travel. Therefore, explanations closely related to aquaplaning are something that must be taken into account.
What is Aquaplaning?
As mentioned earlier, aquaplaning is a condition when a car's tires lose grip due to asphalt. The main cause of aquaplaning is the increasing size of water puddles. This event is generally found when it is raining heavily and there is flooding on the roads.
Large water puddles will make it difficult for the car to maintain its balance, causing the car to skid. Not only that, aquaplaning can also occur due to a vehicle's load that does not match its capacity.
Car tires can always grip the asphalt due to the presence of car tires. However, every car has a bottom that is flooded with water when moving, especially if the car is traveling at high speeds. Strong winds entering the bottom can lift the car.
This may not be immediately felt by the driver. Generally, water takes time to flow and move, the same thing happens when a car is moving at high speed, some water that does not get displaced by the tire grooves eventually creates a thin layer between the asphalt and the tire.
Don't be mistaken, even though it is very thin, this will still cause the car tires not to touch the road surface. This is the condition where the car tires become lifted and ultimately lose their balance, causing the car to be unable to grip the asphalt perfectly.
Read Also: These Tips for Safe and Comfortable Driving in the Rain from Daihatsu
How to Overcome the Dangers of Aquaplaning
When drivers are in the car, they may not realize that there is a layer of water underneath, and eventually, an accident occurs. To keep you alert, here are tips for dealing with aquaplaning, especially in the rain, including:
1. Keep the Steering Wheel Straight
To handle aquaplaning, you can continuously hold the steering wheel straight and alert. When you see the situation becoming difficult to control, you must be ready to control the vehicle to pass through waterlogged roads.
2. Brake Smoothly
When braking, make sure to brake properly. When the car is on slippery roads, it should be braked several times to avoid skidding easily. However, the braking must also be appropriate.
Avoid pressing the brake too hard; you should also brake gently. This braking is done to help the car maintain stability on wet roads.
In addition, the function of gentle braking is also to reduce and control the vehicle's speed, so the car can be well controlled.
Read Also: In the Rainy Season, These Are the Most Important Parts of the Car That Need Extra Attention
3. Gradually Release the Gas Pedal
One important point to pay attention to besides braking is to press and release the gas pedal gently. When passing through waterlogged roads, it is better to reduce speed.
After knowing that aquaplaning is something that can affect driving safety, there is another thing that must be considered and also affects driving safety. What else but the condition of the car, make sure to perform regular car maintenance such as periodic service at an official Daihatsu workshop.
